One dream at a time

He may not have known it at the time, but the decision early in his research career by Dr. Aristotle Voineskos CAMH’s Vice President of Research to focus on the intersection of two disciplines—brain imaging and genetics—made him the perfect choice to lead CAMH’s vast interdisciplinary team of scientists in this era of discovery and innovation in the brain science of mental health. But when asked about his dreams for the future, he reflects on the urgent need to bring brain science to the clinic. Bringing it back to what this is all about: the patient.

“I think of one of my patients who has schizophrenia and was on the street. He was hearing loud and critical voices; he couldn't work or focus. Thankfully with the help of a specific medication and advocacy, he is now employed, and has stable housing. But while the voices are better, they are still there.

By today’s standards, it is a success story. But I dream of a future where he would not have to hear voices at all. Where he would not worry about telling his employer about his illness. Where he would be able to have an intimate relationship or a family of his own. Where he would be able to live a full life.”

This is where brain science is so important. If we more fully understand the mechanisms of mental illness, we can develop better treatments that can eliminate symptoms completely, allowing a person better quality of life. Dr. Voineskos sums it up best: “Research is the foundation of better care. It has the power to beat stigma, and give hope. So we won’t stop until everyone with mental illness can live their full life.”